How to decorate for Autumn - Thanksgiving Table Ideas

As a mom who loves to decorate, yet doesn't have much time, since the chore list is never ending ;), I am constantly looking for a fast and easy ways to incorporate new decor into my house. As the days get shorter and colder we are naturally drawn inside and want to surround ourselves with warm textues and colors, that can allow us to capture the feeling of late-summer rays of the sun inside our homes. Now it's the moment to lean into cozy aestethics and create meaningful tablescapes for our gatherings, as we spend more and more time inside. 

In this post, you'll find ideas and inspirations that you can easily incorporate in your home to elevate your Thanksgiving or autumn dining experience and make your guests feel cozy and welcome. Combining textures, colors, natural elements and simple styling touches you can become a curator of the tablescape that's not only seasonal but beautiful. 

 

1. Watch These Themes

Are you ready to create your Autumn tablescape? Read this first. These themes are gaining traction right now and can help you choose your perfect aestethics.

Choose Moody & Rich Tones: 

Deep rust, purples, greens, burgundies, golds and warm neutrals dominate the fall colour palette. Add soft lighting, like candles and sconces, to enchance these tones and make them even more rich and inviting.

 

Bring Nature and Harvest Elements:

Use everything that this season has to offer, like branches, dried grasses or flowers, seed pods, mini pumpkins, gourds, apples, pears, acorns and chestnuts. Be creative - those elements are easy to get and most of all they're bring nature into your home. I love using gourds - that add instant color and warmth into my home. 

Layer Textures:

Think about the texture, you can use linen, cotton, wooven elements, wooden chargers, ceramics and metallic accents. Layering creates depth, that's why it's often used by designers and stylists.

 

Embrace imperfection:

Don't be affraid of the imperfections - they add an artistic touch. Details like hand thrown and hand-painted ceramics, mix and match plates, uneven leaves, reclaimed wood add character and movement to your table. 

 

Use Accent Colors and Unexpected Pairings:

While terracotta and gold remain staples, be creative and use unexpected pairings like blue and purple, colorful glassware and bold statement pieces like candles and bows can dramatically change the mood of your table.

2. Color Palette Ideas

Here are a few colorways You can use to create your own eyecatching tablescape:

Earth tones:

Rust, terracota, mustard yellow, olive and cream 

Jewel Palette:

Deep purples like plum, indigo blue, charcoal, mauve and brass

Soft Warm Neutrals:

Creamy, taupe hues, soft blush, dried grass color and pale gold

Pumpkins and Sage:

Burnt orange, sage green, warm red cinnamon color and neutral linen tone
Choose one strong color palette for your table to be cohesive, but don't be affraid to add contrasting accents.

3. Styling Your Table

Here is a simple recipe to easily design your dream Thanksgiving table, one that is elegant and seasonal:

Base - Tablecloth

Every great tablescape begins with the a tablecloth - you can choose neutral base or a beautiful printed tablecloth that's consistent with the color palette that you chose. 

Napkins - Include Textured Cotton or Linen

Choose an accent shade that suits your palette. Fold napkins with a mini pumpkin, ribbon, or dried leaf to double as décor.

Centerpice - Add Seasonal Accents

Think gours, pears and eggplants, cascading leaves, mini pumpkins, or berries. Here you can really get creative - use dry florals or wild wine fruits to make your bouquets intresting. Keep the height low so your guests can see each other and enjoy the conversation.

 

Candlelight & Glassware – Mix Heights & Tones

Use candles in various heights. Group them together to create a statement. To add warmth and intrest use colorful glasswear. 

 

Details – Add Personal Touches

Include place cards - great personal detail to make your guests feel special. Seasonal fruits, eacorns, chestnuts, seed pods, sprigs or various fruits make your table feel styled and curated.

 

4. What you can add for Thanksgiving

 

Gratitude cards

At each place setting you can include small cards where your guests can write what they're thankful for.

Edible Decor:

Along side of florals and leaves you can use figs, grapes, nuts, or cranberries to decorate your table. Check two boxes: looks great and taste delicious.

Heritage & Heirloom Items:

Use the pieces that are dear to you, like heirloom plates, vintage napkin rings or beloved candle holders that remind you of your loved ones, your parents, grandparents, maybe your favourite Aunt :)

Rustic linens:

Use real napkins like cotton or linen ones that give a lived-in home, cozy feel.

Layered Place Settings:

Mix and Match various sizes of plates and bowls to add depth and curated feel. 

I hope that I inspired you with my styling and that you will create your own version at home. I would very much like to see what you came up with. Feel free to tag me on Pinterest @AnaVictoriaHome.

 

Show Your Story through Your Table

Autumn tablescape can be more than just decor- it could be a way to express your personality, to add warmth, express gratitude and to help you connect with your loved ones. You can use trendy palette and blend it with textures and natural elements to create a Thanksgiving table, cultivated and heartfelt. It'll ensure that your guests will remember it for a long time.

Let the colors of this season guide you, take inspiration from nature and don't be affraid to add some unexpected details and colours like purple. This way you can create truly magical experience. 

If you like more tips you can download my Free Set The Table Guide and become a Tablescape Stylist today.